Chapter 1: Rethinking Meditation

It turns out I’ve been practicing meditation incorrectly for the past 25 years.

Sitting cross-legged. Hands resting on my knees. Focusing on my breath. That’s what I believed meditation was. However, after tuning into an enlightening Andrew Huberman podcast, my perception of meditation shifted dramatically.

Huberman, a professor and neuroscientist from Stanford, shares insights about two distinct types of individuals:

1. Interoceptive individuals, who are in tune with their internal sensations—like recognizing an upset stomach or feeling their heartbeat without touch.
2. Exteroceptive individuals, who remain aware of their surroundings and external stimuli—sights, sounds, and other sensations outside their bodies.

For someone like me, who identifies as more interoceptive, relying on conventional meditation practices might not be beneficial. Huberman explains that closing one’s eyes can deactivate nearly 40% of the brain's functions, which may intensify the focus on internal states. For interoceptive individuals, excessive introspection can lead to discomfort.

Before this revelation, I had established a rigid meditation routine, typically meditating with my eyes closed for about 20 minutes each night. As someone prone to anxiety, I thought this practice was helping me achieve peace and manage stress. In reality, I was inadvertently heightening my sensitivity to anxiety triggers.

Following my viewing of Huberman's episode, I decided to abandon my meditation practice—and the results were both immediate and positive.

In the video "Meditation Changed My Life and Helped My Anxiety," the creator discusses personal insights on how meditation can be both helpful and counterproductive for anxiety management.

Chapter 2: Discovering New Paths

Before all this, I had come across "The Highly Sensitive Person" by Elaine N. Aron, which profoundly resonated with me.

Aron shares a story about a monk who sought solitude in a cave, only to be driven mad by the incessant sound of dripping water. This parable struck a chord; I realized I was akin to that monk.

For individuals like me—interoceptive and highly sensitive—the solution may not lie in retreating to a personal sanctuary. In fact, it complicates the process of stepping out into the world.

I've found that a balance exists between staying indoors and engaging with life. For years, I leaned towards isolation. The answer seemed straightforward: I needed to venture out more and explore "eyes-open" forms of meditation.

In recent weeks, I have immersed myself in social activities. Instead of declining invitations from friends, I consciously chose to participate. Where I would have previously retreated into my closed-eyed meditative state, I now engage in activities that require more physical involvement.

One of my proudest moments came during a week when I ventured out five times consecutively—some outings brief, others longer. By week’s end, I noticed a significant decrease in my sensitivity to anxiety-inducing stimuli.

Gradually, I'm rediscovering my equilibrium. While I’m more active than I’ve been in a long time, I remain vigilant about avoiding overwhelm.

Though I feel rejuvenated, this journey feels different now. Previously, my focus was solely on productivity and impactful conversations. Now, I prioritize sustainability—taking proactive breaks, increasing outdoor time, and allowing room for enjoyment. All these practices nourish my mind, body, and spirit in healthier ways.

As a result, I’ve experienced a remarkable improvement in my overall well-being.

In "LET GO of Anxiety, Fear & Worries: A GUIDED MEDITATION," viewers are guided through a meditation aimed at fostering harmony, inner peace, and emotional healing.